Friends of Maryhill Park: September 2015 Minutes

2. Minutes of previous meeting (12.05.15) were approved. There were no matters arising.

3. Summer Fair 21.06.15

Despite mixed weather this year ‘s summer fair was a success, so much so that Patricia Ferguson mentioned it in the Scottish Parliament.

The entertainments and catering were well received and NH has frozen burgers and cans of drinks left over, some of which have been donated to a barbecue for young people in the neighbourhood.

SH reported that the takings balanced outgoings.

There was agreement that any donations towards future summer fairs should again be used to support free activities for children.

It is proposed to hold next year’s event on the third Sunday in June 17.06.16, just before school term ends, and that we should apply for funding early in the new year.

SH

4. AGM Business

It was agreed existing office bearers, [ ] should continue in respective roles as no expressions of interest from others. NH reported that the constitution allows the appointment of up to 12 people, so scope for future expansion.

There have been attempts to locate and clear drains, challenging as no map of drainage network available. Some drain covers are missing and it will be necessary to approach council for replacements, preferably plastic composite, without scrap value.BC

The possibility of developing a bog garden by a natural spring near Caldercuilt Rd was raised.

Park benches have been shifted from intended locations and it was suggested the council is approached for two new benches and volunteers offer to anchor them.

There was some discussion over optimal placing of benches and the possibility of moulding abandoned shopping trolleys into seats.

An application to Stalled Spaces for funds to develop pavilion site was turned down because of our affiliation with the council and lack of independent status.

Glasgow Life have confirmed they are responsible for tennis court / bowling green area, which may make future applications for development funding clearer. It might be possible to apply for Lottery Grant or monies from other charitable bodies. Further research into possible funding sources will be explored.NH

PF advised that there is a designated council official to advise on setting of areas of budget priorities and FOMP should consider applying in Spring 2016.All

NH thanked R and B for their promotion of Maryhill Friends Group through social media, which could in future be a means of raising funds for projects.

CC thanked NH for creating colourful flower beds.

SH reported the petition for pedestrian crossing at Maryhill Station is still in progress – online and in paper form. There may be scope to collect more signatures at local venues and PF will add a link to her website.

Previously petitioning for a crossing was unsuccessful but it was agreed there are significant safety concerns and efforts should continue.

PF

PF mentioned the Maryhill–Queen Street rail-link will be disrupted for a prolonged period next year during line works.

PF described advanced proposals to develop a community facility at the site of the former Springburn Winter Gardens which might inspire our group to persevere with ambitious plans.